Cloud Technology: What does it Mean?

Cloud computing is all the rage. “It’s become the phrase du jour,” according to Ben Pring, Senior Analyst at Gartner. The problem is that many definitions of the space are circulating and, with that comes confusion.

Let’s try to clarify cloud technology.

In today’s world, convenience is king. Luckily, the use of cloud technology enables individuals and companies to access everything they need just by logging into the cloud. Imagine having your office everywhere you go, as long as you have your smartphone, tablet, or computer. That’s what cloud technology does.

For example, when you log into your favorite social media site, you’re accessing the front end of the cloud, while the back end contains all of the hardware and software that keeps it functioning. A network connects all the user’s end devices, like smartphones or tablets, so any user can log into the cloud and access all of the data stored on the network.

Cloud based storage works the same way. You create an account and save your data to the cloud, giving you access to your files anytime you log in – on any computer or in any geographic location.

When you log into your cloud service provider, you’re accessing all of the information stored on their servers, either by you or other people with access to the same network. There are a ton of advantages to utilizing a cloud based service: you can access your data anywhere, you don’t have to store everything on your hard drive, and you can edit data simultaneously with other users, making collaborations much more user-friendly. Another plus? You save money on IT – since you aren’t storing your own physical servers, you can use your cloud’s tech support if there are any glitches.

Whether you are a small business looking to grow or a large business looking to give employees better access to data and resources, a cloud based storage plan is perfect for you. The cloud is scalable, so you don’t have to invest in expensive technologies without testing the waters for success. You can incrementally increase your storage for a small fee each time until you find the storage plan that perfectly fits your growing business. In addition, file sharing is done over the cloud, so everyone can have access to all data stored there, whether they’re in the same office or spread across the world.

Cloud based storage is a major, modern convenience that many businesses are realizing they cannot function without – with the right network, a cloud can increase the productivity of your business without increasing overhead costs.